Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Let us await the decision of An tUachtarán on whether he is going to run again or not. Then we might have a debate on who should run against him or not or who will who might not run. There are always difficulties in the nomination process, whether internal to a party or an independent grouping. Democracy involves elections, whether for the presidency, the local authority, the European Council, the Dáil or Seanad. I would certainly welcome an election contest for the presidency. We should be afraid of that. Whether it is right or not is a different matter. Some members of the media will say Michael D. Higgins should be let run on his own. Others will say he should be opposed and do we want the cost of an election. I do not think we can put a cost on democracy. A price should not be put on democracy.

I join Senator Warfield in congratulating those involved in street art, not just in Dublin but also in Cork. The Reimagine Cork group did a wonderful job transforming the streetscape and public realm in Cork. I fully welcome the start collective that has been put in place. It does add vibrancy to the city and I would be happy to work with the Senator to ensure that we recognise the different groups. Sometimes the decisions of local authorities on the erection of hoardings or murals baffles those of us who are not planners or architects or engineers or urban planners.Sometimes we should just allow people to be creative. In White Street in Cork, we have a series of walls where those who engage in graffiti go in and do their work. It is very creative and artistic. It might not be to everyone's taste but it is a space where young people in particular can go. Reimagine Cork has transformed the streetscape and I congratulate the volunteers.

Turning to Senator Humphreys, the Committee on Procedure and Privileges, CPP, of the Seanad agreed yesterday to the request from the Dáil regarding a climate change committee. It is important and we will endeavour to take it seriously. Senator Mulherin has been very strong within our party in terms of promoting measures against climate change. She been a great advocate in that regard. I would love to travel around the country with Senator Davitt. I would love to get into the car with him.